Introduction

India, an agrarian economy, is witnessing a growing shift toward natural farming as an alternative to conventional chemical-intensive agriculture. With concerns over soil degradation, groundwater depletion, and declining farmer incomes, the government has been actively promoting Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) and organic agricultural practices. The initiative aligns with India’s commitments to climate resilience, food security, and sustainable farming under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Current Status and Government Initiatives

1. Natural Farming under PM-PRANAM

   • The PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM) was launched to promote natural and chemical-free farming.
   • It incentivizes states to reduce chemical fertilizer usage by providing financial support equivalent to the savings made on urea and other synthetic fertilizers.

2. Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP)

   • Introduced under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), BPKP promotes low-cost, eco-friendly farming methods.
   • As of 2023, 4.09 lakh hectares have been brought under natural farming across 17 states.

3. State-Led Initiatives

   • Andhra Pradesh has been a pioneer in Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), covering over 6 million farmers.
   • Gujarat launched the Natural Farming Initiative, providing financial assistance to farmers transitioning to chemical-free practices.

Challenges in Implementing Natural Farming in India

1. Yield Uncertainty

   • Farmers are concerned that initial yield losses could affect their income. A lack of large-scale studies to compare yield sustainability further raises doubts.

2. Market Linkages and Certification Issues

   • Natural farm produce lacks a distinct certification system, unlike organic farming, making it difficult to fetch premium prices.
   • There is low consumer awareness and inadequate market infrastructure for natural farming products.

3. Knowledge and Training Gaps

   • Many farmers rely on traditional chemical-based practices and lack awareness and training on natural farming techniques such as bio-inoculants, mulching, and intercropping.

4. Soil Fertility Transition

   • A sudden shift from chemical farming to natural farming may cause temporary soil fertility fluctuations, impacting productivity in the short term.

5. Policy and Financial Support

   • Unlike conventional farming, where subsidies on fertilizers are substantial, financial incentives for natural farming are limited, making the transition difficult for small farmers.

The Way Forward

1. Research and Innovation

   • The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) should conduct long-term studies on yield sustainability and soil health under natural farming to provide scientific backing.

2. Certification and Branding

   • Developing a distinct certification system for natural farm produce will help farmers fetch better prices.
   • The government should promote e-commerce platforms dedicated to natural farm produce.

3. Farmer Training and Extension Services

   • Establishing natural farming training centers at the block and district levels will equip farmers with necessary skills.
   • Incorporating digital education platforms for farmers can accelerate knowledge dissemination.

4. Policy Realignment and Financial Incentives

   • The government should reallocate subsidies from chemical fertilizers to support natural farming inputs, such as bio-fertilizers and indigenous seeds.
   • Providing minimum support prices (MSP) for natural farm produce will encourage more farmers to adopt the practice.

5. State and Community Participation

   • Encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) in natural farming can create a sustainable supply chain and ensure market linkages.
   • Village-level community-driven farming models should be promoted, ensuring peer-to-peer learning and collaborative growth.

Conclusion

India’s push for natural farming is a significant step towards sustainable agriculture, ensuring soil health, reduced input costs, and climate resilience. However, structured policy reforms, research-backed implementation, and financial support are essential to making natural farming a viable alternative to conventional agriculture. With a balanced approach, India can lead the global movement towards chemical-free, climate-friendly farming while ensuring food security and rural prosperity.